Reflecting Hope

"The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.”Exodus 12:13

Dear Via Family,

On Tuesday night of this week, I slipped into our Celebrate Recovery ministry that meets at Via weekly. From the back, I worshipped and prayed along with well over 40 people who had gathered. I stuck around to hear someone tell their testimony. A man eloquently read his life story, sparing few details. This man is well educated, highly successful, well churched, and has had a stellar life - on the outside. However, twenty-two months ago he came to my office devastated as the weight of many years of private unconfessed sin drove him to come clean to his wife and family.

I knew then, that the odds were against this man and family to salvage their relationships. I knew that the grace of God was sufficient, but the hard work that needed to be done was daunting. I knew that when I suggested Celebrate Recovery that it was a hard sell. Reluctantly, he went. With the help of leaders, his group, and some good counseling, this man has been transformed and is still changing. His speech, countenance, and very life scream of his affection for Jesus. Only God can do this! Via not only reflects hope, but gets to be the conduit to help those who have no hope.

Here are a couple of things I want to share as we head into the weekend......

This WeekendIn preparation for our time of worship together, please read Exodus 12:1 - 13:16. Watch for the timing of the Passover instructions.

Third Sunday - B.L.E.S.S RhythmsOn Sunday, February 19 at 6pm in the Chapel, we are going to unpack these rhythms that are listed on the back of our weekly guide. It is fairly safe to say that many of us desire to grow in our faithfulness to Jesus and our witness to the good news of what he has done. More than grand gestures, faithfulness is more often doing small (and often overlooked) tasks well over a long period of time. Join us in a casual setting as we gather around tables and learn together. For more information click on the link below.

Hope InitiativeHope Initiative is a One Fund approach to giving. That means that a portion of every dollar that you give to Via supports weekly ministry like Celebrate Recovery, youth, kids, worship services, Via Communities, seniors, and adult classes. Almost countless ministries happen consistently at Via. When you give you are supporting everything that goes into these crucial gatherings - buildings, staff, furnishings, promotional materials, food, etc. Via cannot do these things without your faithful generosity. Thank you! For more information about Hope Initiative, please use this link: